This topic is about understanding the shelf life of ostomy pouches and whether it's safe to use older supplies. The person sharing their experience is using pouches more frequently due to a wound dressing that affects the adhesion. To save their preferred supplies, they are using older pouches, some of which are one to two years old. They are concerned about whether the adhesive has been compromised over time and are seeking advice on the reliability of these older pouches.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from others:

1. General shelf life: Ostomy pouches generally have a shelf life of about 3 to 5 years. Many people use them beyond the expiration date without any issues.

2. "If it sticks, use it": If the pouch still adheres well, many have found no problems using pouches that are over two years old.

3. Storage conditions matter:
- Keeping supplies in a cool, dry, and climate-controlled environment helps maintain their viability for years.
- Avoid exposing them to high heat, like in a parked car, as it can soften or melt the adhesive. Extreme cold can dry it out.
- Rotating stock or storing emergency supplies in an insulated bag or pouch can protect them from temperature changes.

4. Quick test before committing: Try applying an old barrier on intact skin away from the stoma to check its adhesion. If it lifts too soon, it might be time to discard it.

5. Extra security for questionable barriers: You can use a medical adhesive spray, like Hollister Medical Adhesive Spray 7730, to enhance stickiness if needed.

6. Expiry coding: The expiration date on boxes is often coded by the manufacturer. Some community members have shared how to decode these dates.

7. Manufacturers usually recommend discarding out-of-date stock, but many users have safely continued using products that are stored properly and still adhere well.